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The Art/s of Exchange
The Art/s of Exchange is a research report examining how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the online distribution of, and access to, digital cultural services across Victoria’s Galleries, Libraries, Archives and Museums (GLAM) sector.
The project was led by Professor Jules Moloney from RMIT University, who authored the report with assistance from Dr Bree Trevena and Anna Huggins from Left Bank Co. The research underpinning the report was led by Associate Professor Li Ping Thong and Dr Jane Button from RMIT University.
During the pandemic, cultural institutions faced unprecedented disruption as physical spaces closed and public access was restricted. In response, many organisations rapidly expanded their digital offerings, reimagining how collections could be presented, shared and experienced online. Rather than simply replicating existing exhibitions in digital form, institutions experimented with new platforms, formats and modes of engagement that reached audiences beyond traditional geographic boundaries.
The report analyses how this period of rapid experimentation accelerated the digital transformation of the GLAM sector. It documents how institutions adapted their collections for online access, how digital programs were delivered to new audiences and how these shifts created opportunities for sustained international engagement.
A key focus of the research is the strategic potential of digital cultural services in strengthening cultural exchange between Victoria and the Asia-Pacific region. By examining case studies and institutional responses, the report highlights how online cultural delivery can support broader cultural diplomacy and international engagement agendas, particularly with audiences across Southeast Asia.
The accompanying video above provides an overview of The Art/s of Exchange, featuring reflections from project contributors and cultural sector leaders. Professor Jules Moloney and Dr Li Ping Thong discuss opportunities for a more transformative approach to digital cultural delivery that is both effective and sustainable, while expanding accessibility to digital collections and online cultural content for Southeast Asian audiences. Sebastian Chan, Director and CEO of ACMI, reflects on how the report highlights past innovation while encouraging forward-thinking approaches to digital engagement across Victoria’s cultural sector.
The project was developed through partnerships between the Asia Trade and Innovation Hub (ATIH), the Victorian Government, Asia Society Australia, and the Australian APEC Study Centre (AASC).
The full report can be downloaded below.
Project Team
Professor Jules Moloney (School of Design, RMIT University)
Associate Professor Li Ping Thong (School of Design, RMIT University)
Dr Jane Button (RMIT University)
Dr Bree Trevena (Arup)
Anna Huggins (Left Bank Co)
Funding / Support
Asia Trade and Innovation Hub (ATIH)
Victoria State Government
Asia Society Australia
Australian APEC Study Centre (AASC)